Councilman Marks Provides an Update on Joppa Road Resurfacing

As a resident of western Perry Hall, I drive the Joppa Road corridor more than any other route in our community. I know the driving conditions along Joppa Road are, to say the least, less than ideal right now - but I wanted to provide an update on more permanent resurfacing that will occur.

There are two projects occurring along Joppa Road. The county is completing water infrastructure improvements east of Walther Boulevard, and BGE has been doing utility work west of Walther Boulevard.

The water project is particularly important. I spend much of my time these days responding to water main breaks these days, and the improvements along Joppa Road will strengthen our infrastructure. The old, 7,000-foot water pipe has been replaced with a new, 12-inch diameter line, a $3 million project.

Once the pipe is laid, a temporary patch is installed by contractors to get the road reopened every day. That patch is only two inches thick. Because this backfill settles and consolidates over time, the temporary patches are in place for 90 days. This means that right now is the worst time for the traveling public. Skipping this step would result in permanent dips in the road. After 90 days, the contractor will completely remove the temporary patches and install the permanent patches, which are much thicker and stronger.

I know the Joppa Road project is frustrating, but want residents to know the timeline for improvements - and why temporary patching is needed while the road settles.